Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
A Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the perfect dish for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting meal. This soup combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and creamy goodness, making it a favorite among families. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, or a crowd-pleasing gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The unique blend of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a bowl: This soup is warm and creamy, providing the ultimate comfort on cold days.
- Quick and easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile ingredients: Modify ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit dietary preferences.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this classic dish, making it great for family dinners.
- Perfect for leftovers: This soup reheats beautifully, ensuring you can savor its deliciousness even after the first serving.
Tools and Preparation
Creating this creamy chicken noodle soup requires some essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as they provide even heat distribution.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for vegetables and chicken, enhancing safety and efficiency in preparation.
Ingredients
A family favorite for cold days or any time you need a hug, it’s a classic recipe made even more delicious.
Ingredients:
– ½ cup butter
– 2 cups chopped carrots ((about 3 large carrots))
– 1 ½ cups chopped celery ((about half a head of celery))
– 1 cup chopped onion ((about one medium onion))
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon base
– ½ teaspoon course ground black pepper ((plus additional for seasoning))
– 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts ((about 2 large chicken breasts))
– 4 ounces of wide egg noodles ((about 2 ½ cups))
– 2 10.5 ounce cans cream of chicken soup
– ¼ cup water or milk
– salt
– 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley ((optional garnish))
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Then, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent and the vegetables are tender. Watch the heat to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously to coat them evenly and break up any clumps. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flour to combine with the butter and vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Bouillon
Slowly stir in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Then add the chicken bouillon base and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, stirring well.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken breasts into the pot, fully submerging them in the broth. Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until cooked through at an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from pot once done.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add egg noodles to the pot while stirring to combine. Cover and cook on medium-high for about 7-10 minutes until tender. While cooking, shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return shredded chicken back into the pot once noodles are ready.
Step 6: Add the Cream Soup
In a small bowl, whisk together two cans of cream of chicken soup with ¼ cup water or milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into your pot and stir thoroughly until everything blends into a creamy consistency. Taste before adding extra pepper or salt if desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle your creamy chicken noodle soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or crackers!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Thyme: A few leaves of thyme can deepen the flavor profile.
Pair with Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Add flavor and texture with buttery garlic bread.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon
- Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors in the soup.
Serve with Salad
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad offers a refreshing contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the soup’s richness.
Incorporate Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan on top provides a savory finish.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar adds extra creaminess and flavor.
Include Crackers or Chips
- Saltine Crackers: Classic pairing that adds crunch to each spoonful.
- Tortilla Chips: For a twist, serve with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Achieving the perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup takes some careful steps and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making skills.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup.
- Control the Heat: Simmer at a low temperature to keep chicken tender and flavorful.
- Customize Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper based on preference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm on low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain creaminess without curdling.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks that are perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a light and refreshing contrast.
- Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet muffins add warmth and comfort alongside your soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide added nutrients and textures.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad brings texture and heartiness to your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a filling accompaniment to soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing this comforting dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring the broth quality: Using low-quality or overly salty broth can affect the soup’s flavor. Always opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over seasoning.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Simmer until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, then shred it immediately.
- Not properly measuring flour: Adding too much flour can lead to a thick, gummy soup. Use a kitchen scale or standard measuring cups to ensure accuracy.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Neglecting to add fresh parsley for garnish can take away from the soup’s presentation. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds both color and flavor.
- Using incorrect noodle types: Not all noodles work well in soup. Stick with wide egg noodles as they hold up best in creamy soups without becoming mushy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep the soup in an airtight container.
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this creamy chicken noodle soup recipe.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it during the last cooking steps.
What vegetables can I add to my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans to enhance flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can substitute whole grain noodles or add more vegetables while reducing the amount of cream used.
Can I make this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully if made a day ahead. Just store properly and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for chilly days or when you need some comforting food. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give this soup a try—you won’t regret it!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. This hearty dish features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth that warms your soul. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The blend of flavors and textures will leave everyone wanting more, turning this classic recipe into a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 1 ½ cups chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon base
- ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup water or milk
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat; add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 7–10 minutes until tender.
- Stir in flour; cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth; bring to a boil while adding bouillon and pepper.
- Submerge chicken breasts; cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until cooked.
- Add egg noodles; cook for another 7–10 minutes until tender.
- Shred the chicken and return to the pot; stir in cream of chicken soup mixed with water or milk.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 330g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 83mg
